Sao Tome Green Pigeon

Treron sanctithomae

The São Tomé Green Pigeon (Treron sanctithomae) is a captivating and distinctive member of the pigeon family, endemic to the lush forests of São Tomé island. Averaging about 28 cm in length and weighing around 200-250 grams, this medium-sized pigeon sports a predominantly vibrant green plumage, complemented by a yellowish belly and undertail coverts. Males are particularly striking with a diagnostic maroon patch on their wing coverts, a feature often duller or absent in females, exhibiting su...

Habitat

This species primarily inhabits evergreen lowland and montane forests, as well as forest edge habitats and overgrown plantations on São Tomé island, typically found from sea level up to the highest elevations.

Diet

The São Tomé Green Pigeon is an almost exclusively frugivorous species, feeding on a variety of wild fruits, particularly figs and berries, gleaned directly from trees.

Behavior

The São Tomé Green Pigeon is a diurnal species, spending its days foraging high in the canopy and roosting in dense tree cover at night. It employs an acrobatic foraging strategy, plucking fruits directly from branches while often hanging upside down, demonstrating remarkable agility. While gener...

Range

The São Tomé Green Pigeon is entirely restricted to the island of São Tomé, part of the nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, located in the Gulf of Guinea off the western coast of Central Africa. This species is resident throughout its limited range, showing no migratory patterns whatsoever. It can b...

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Fun Facts

- The São Tomé Green Pigeon is one of the few bird species endemic solely to São Tomé island, highlighting its unique evolutionary journey. - Its diet consists almost entirely of fruits, making it a crucial seed disperser for the island's native flora. - Unlike many island endemics, it is conside...

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